Italy beats Spain 2-0 to reach Euro 2016 quarterfinals

Chiellini’s goal, which sparked joyous celebrations among the Italian players and fans, was the first conceded by Spain in the knockout stages of a major tournament since a 3-1 defeat by France in the last 16 of the 2006 World Cup in Germany.

Italy deserved its victory and was impressive from the start at Stade de France, dominating in all areas of the field and creating several scoring opportunities.

It truly was a team performance and the sort of display that will make world champions Germany – who don’t have a great record against the Azzurri – anxious about their chances. “They did something fantastic tonight”.

De Gea was the subject of some criticism for the way Italy took the lead though, as he failed to palm away an Eder free-kick before Chiellini bundled in the rebound at the third attempt. “You can lose, but during the first half we were mistaken in being too concerned with them, it’s very disappointing”.

Spain had a rare half-chance in the 20th minute when Nolito made good ground on the left before pulling the ball back for Cesc Fabregas, whose powerful low drive was blocked by Chiellini. Maintaning the ball possession, they took the attack to the oppositon and tested Buffon twice – once to the left to deny Iniesta’s lob and later a volley from Gerard Pique on the right. “We face another tough game against Germany but we proved Italy are not just about Catenaccio”. Graziano Pelle’s late strike put the gloss on a performance that deserved that reward far earlier.

The Italians hardly boast the superstar names of their rivals but the likes of Sunderland midfielder Emanuele Giaccherini and Southampton striker Graziano Pelle – not to mention a watertight defence – were exceptional.

The speed with which Conte’s men broke after winning the ball back made it hard for the Spaniards to move forward, but it was the doggedness of the Italian backline and their midfield that really broke Spanish spirits.

“In the first half we were too much concerned with what they were doing”, he said. Italy had also been eliminated by Spain in a penalty shootout in the quarterfinals at Euro 2008.

There will be a new name on the Henri Delaunay Trophy this year, after defending champions Spain were knocked out of the competition by Italy this evening.

Spain entered Monday’s game surrounded by doubts after losing 2-1 to Croatia in its final group game, and again it wasn’t able to impose the passing game that’s been behind its recent success.

“Few words. We have to accept the disappointment”.

Spain’s midfield. Their playmakers hardly got a touch as Italy’s midfield swarmed all around them and never let them have time to breathe.